How to Jump Start/ Jumper Cables and Box/ Back to the Basics with Lexus of Memphis, by Lexus of Memphis on YouTube. 1 min 50 s.
- Video length
- 1 min 50 s
- Time to do it
- 15 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Park the donor car close enough for the cables to reach, switch both engines off and set the parking brakes. Pop the hood on both cars.
Find the positive and negative terminals on each battery. Look for the plus and minus marks and check for corrosion or cracks before you touch anything.
Clamp one red cable end to the positive terminal of the donor car. Then clamp the other red end to the positive terminal of the dead car.
Clamp one black cable end to the negative terminal of the donor car. Clamp the other black end to a bare metal bolt or bracket on the dead car's engine, away from the battery.
Start the donor car and let it run for about 10 minutes to send charge to the flat battery. Keep the cables clear of moving belts and fans.
Try to start the dead car. If it does not catch, let it charge a few more minutes and try again.
Remove the cables in reverse order: black from the metal point, black from the donor, red from the dead car, red from the donor.
For a jumper box, clamp red to positive and black to negative on the dead battery, power the box on, then start the car. Switch the box off and remove the clamps.
Drive the car for at least 20 to 30 minutes so the alternator can recharge the battery, and have the battery tested soon after.
Tips and common mistakes
Never let the red and black clamps touch each other while any end is connected, as this can cause a spark or short.
Connect the last black clamp to bare metal on the dead car, not the battery, to reduce spark risk near hydrogen gas.
Keep your face and hands clear of the battery while connecting, and wear safety glasses in case of acid splash.
A battery that keeps going flat likely needs replacing, so get it tested rather than jumping it every week.
Questions
Can I jump start a car with a jumper box alone?
Yes. A charged jumper box connects straight to the dead battery, so you do not need a second car. Clamp red to positive and black to negative, power it on, then start the engine.
Why does the car not start after 10 minutes of charging?
The battery may be too flat or worn out, or a clamp may not have good contact. Check the connections, wait a few more minutes and try again. If it still fails, the battery likely needs replacing.
Is it safe to jump start a modern car?
Usually yes, but check the owner's manual first. Some cars have specific jump points or battery locations, and a wrong connection can damage electronics.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
